In theory, Town Meeting is a classic example of democracy in action. In practice, it leaves much to be desired. Many community members cannot afford to take an entire day off; a choice between exercising one’s rights and putting food on the table is hardly balanced.

Why is Town Meeting Day NOT a state holiday? When agenda items are not on the ballot, even those folks who try to participate by voting are denied the right to participate in decisions which may affect them. This is neither democratic nor fair.

If town meetings are dominated by the same folks year after year because others cannot afford to spend a day, or are not allowed to do so by their employers, this is not really democracy.